These slow cooker pork chops are tender and topped with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce that makes everything better. It’s a simple meal that’s big on flavor!
Who wouldn’t love a dish that cooks itself while you relax? I enjoy serving these with mashed potatoes—it’s the perfect pairing for all that yummy sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for flavor and moisture during cooking. If you prefer, boneless pork chops or even chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for thinner cuts.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might not be as rich. For dairy-free, try coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated Parmesan creates the best flavor. If unavailable, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly elevates the dish. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh will always have a better taste. You can also roast garlic for a sweeter flavor.
How Do I Ensure Pork Chops Are Tender and Full of Flavor?
To ensure your pork chops are flavorful and tender, start by seasoning them well before cooking. Use a generous amount of salt, pepper, and seasoning. Searing in hot olive oil creates a nice crust that adds depth to the flavor.
- After seasoning, sear the pork chops in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side. That golden brown crust is key!
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic just until fragrant, then deglaze with chicken broth to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Slow cooking is essential—make sure to let them cook on low in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 3 to 4 hours of slow cooking time. Totaling around 3 hours and 10 minutes to get a tender and flavorful meal ready for you!
Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This helps to flavor the meat well.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step adds great flavor and texture. Once seared, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds more flavor to the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Slow Cook the Dish:
Transfer the pork chops to your slow cooker and pour the creamy garlic parmesan sauce over them. Make sure the chops are coated well with the sauce. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork chops are fork-tender (the safe internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
5. Serve:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker, and if desired, spoon extra creamy sauce over them. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for garnish. These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your tender, savory pork chops in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce made effortlessly in the slow cooker!
FAQ
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep in mind that they will cook faster, so check for doneness after about 2-3 hours on low heat. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like sliced mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli to the slow cooker along with the pork chops. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so everything is tender by the end.
